George Coetzee: Four golden rules for putting
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Use this tip from George Coetzee to help knock shots off your score!
Four time European Tour winner George Coetzee, who ranked third for putts per GIR and 1st for 25 birdies or better on his way to victory at the Tshwane Open, shares four keys he goes back to on the greens every time.
Unlike many of my colleagues on Tour, I’m not a huge fan of putting practice. In fact, the only time you’ll see me spending hours on the green is if I have a major problem to fix. Other than that, I simply go back to basics to ensure that my putting stays on track. I’m a big believer in that if it isn’t broken, you certainly shouldn’t try to fix it!
These four putting keys have helped me become a really good putter over the years. Slot them into your game and you will hole your fair share, too.
Keep your head steady
This is the best piece of putting advice I’ve ever received. It’s been one of my key basics since I was a kid. Keeping your head still during the stroke helps you strike the ball solidly – a key to line and speed.
Hold your left wrist angle
Good putting is all about consistency and solidity of strike. My only technical thought is to hold the angle at the back of my left wrist. It stops me ‘flicking’ at the ball and keeps my arms and shoulders connected.
Always make practice strokes
Distance control is the secret to avoiding three-putts. I always make three practice strokes. The first two help me get a feel for the length of stroke. On the final one, I rehearse it as though I’m hitting the putt for real.
Read short putts twice
There’s a simple process for holing those three- to five-foot putts. Start them on line. That’s crucial. The ball can easily move three or four inches on putts of this length so read them carefully and be sure about your aim.
